MathThis week we continued to multiply fractions by fractions, and apply what we know to multi-step word problems. We’ve also been working hard to master math vocabulary in preparation for middle school. Today we played a fun game of math pictionary - I’m impressed how much they know!ELAThis week we finished our nonfiction text Promises to Keep. The 5th graders had a lot of fun working in groups to write a script to show their understanding of main events from the text. They learned a lot of new vocabulary and nonfiction reading strategies during this unit. Next, we will be focusing more on writing. Next week students will brainstorm topics of interest, and with guidance narrow down their choices to one topic for an informative essay.ScienceThis week we finished our study of photosynthesis as a part of our life science unit. The students took an open-note quiz yesterday to check their understanding. The graded quizzes were returned today - they are asked to fill out the reflection and have it signed, then return it to school for their portfolio by Tuesday. All students should have their quiz and reflection sheet in their homework folder. To encourage a growth mindset, students who have not yet mastered the standard are welcome to stay after school with me next week, and/or complete an optional webquest in order to further their understanding of photosynthesis. You can view the webquest here. Students have their own copy to fill out on Google Classroom. Any student choosing to complete the optional webquest should submit it by Friday, February 17th. We are moving on with our science standards and will not be able to devote more class time, but I am happy to work with anyone who would like additional help after school.Next in science we will be studying human body systems. This unit will culminate with the Science Fair on Thursday, March 9th. Students chose a body system to study in class today and will work with their group to research and model their chosen system in order to become “experts” on their system. They will showcase what they have learned at the Science Fair. Most of the work for this project will be completed in class, although students wanting extra time or those seeking to go above and beyond are welcome to complete additional research at home. This is the packet they were given today to help guide their work during this unit. Skills such as time management and working in groups will be emphasized just as much as the science standards. Working in groups and completing long-term projects isn’t always easy, but are important skills to get ready for middle school. Ask your 5th grader what body system they will be studying!Social StudiesThis week we studied cultural diffusion, or the spread of culture. Students showed their understanding by analyzing a McDonald’s menu from another country, and sharing with the class how the host country’s unique culture interacts with globalization. Ask your 5th grader what they learned!Next week, we will begin a study of belief systems. Students will understand what a belief system is, then investigate a major world religion: Judaism, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Sikhism. Before beginning this study, we will discuss what a sensitive subject religion can be, and remind one another that we have many different backgrounds represented in the class. Students will learn an overview of facts about these common religions in a way that respects and acknowledges the variety of belief systems in our world.